The artichoke is considered one of the most effective remedies for the liver and gallbladder. It has been cultivated in Europe since around the time of Christ’s birth. In naturopathy, it has established itself as a remedy that stimulates the appetite, aids digestion, and lowers cholesterol.
Interesting facts about artichokes
From the Mafia to a digestif—the artichoke has a history full of surprising twists and turns.
- The Mafia secured a monopoly on the artichoke trade in the United States in the early 19th century—a situation that came to an end with the "Artichoke Wars."
- The well-known Italian digestif Cynar is made from artichokes.
- Botanically speaking, the artichoke is a type of thistle.
Effects & Properties
The artichoke is one of the most effective herbs for liver health. It is particularly effective in aiding fat digestion and metabolism and helps relieve strain on the intestines. Its most important active ingredient is a bitter compound Cynarin, which stimulates the digestive glands even in the mouth—the liver, pancreas, and salivary glands produce more secretions. When consumed regularly, it lowers blood lipid levels by up to 15%. Active ingredients: cynarin, flavonoids, quinic acid derivatives.
Features: cholesterol-lowering, liver-stimulating, metabolism-boosting, aids fat digestion, anti-atherosclerotic, appetite-stimulating.
Applications
The artichoke is a digestive specialist—its therapeutic benefits are consistently focused on this area.
Artichoke stimulates the liver and gallbladder
Cynarin stimulates the liver and pancreas to increase secretion. Digestive function improves, bile production increases, and bile is released into the intestines. The entire digestive system works more efficiently, the feeling of heaviness after eating is reduced, and bloating subsides.
Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) to aid digestion
Artichokes have been used for centuries to aid digestion of fatty foods. They are particularly effective in helping the body process and metabolize fatty meals. They reduce the tendency toward constipation and bloating after heavy meals and significantly improve one’s sense of well-being after eating.
Artichokes lower blood lipid levels
Studies show that regular consumption of artichokes can reduce blood lipid levels by up to 15%. Artichokes stimulate the liver to produce more bile—cholesterol is used in bile production, which is why blood cholesterol levels drop. Since blood lipid levels are directly linked to the development of atherosclerosis, artichokes are an important natural preventive measure against heart attacks and strokes.
Cynara scolymus for gastrointestinal complaints
Many gastrointestinal problems are caused by overworked or sluggish digestive glands. Artichokes stimulate these glands, improve fat digestion, and relieve the entire digestive tract. Bloating, a feeling of fullness, and sluggish digestion are alleviated. Artichokes are the treatment of choice for nearly all problems related to fat metabolism.
Artichokes aid in fat digestion
Substances found in artichokes stimulate liver cells to produce more bile. This bile is released into the small intestine, where it emulsifies the fats from food—only then can the lipases in the pancreas fully break down the fats and allow the body to absorb them.
Instructions for Use
Artichokes should be eaten or consumed as fresh juice. Dried capsule supplements are suitable for long-term use. Important: Take them a few minutes before your next meal so that the bitter compound cynarin has time to stimulate the digestive glands.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Artichokes can be eaten and consumed even during pregnancy.
Contraindications
Caution is advised in cases of an allergy to the Asteraceae family. Artichoke is contraindicated in cases of bile duct inflammation, post-hepatic jaundice, and acute hepatitis, as stimulating the liver can lead to overload.
Plant Profile
- Scientific name: Artichoke
- Plant family: Asteraceae
- Other names: Jockeles, Earthshock
- Flowering period: Starting in August
- Origin: Mediterranean region
- Toxicity: Non-toxic
